Canon has launched a new 2/3” HD zoom lens called the KJ20x8.2B KRSD. The company first introduced its HDgc series of HD portable lenses five years ago to provide high optical performance at competitive prices for the then-emerging generation of lower-cost portable HD video cameras. Designed to offer high-quality performance in a compact and lightweight package, the KJ20x8.2B KRSD boasts a 1.0 second maximum speed over its entire 20x zoom range. Focal lengths range from an extra-wide angle 8.2mm (60.7 degrees angular field of view horizontal in 16:9 aspect ratio) to 164mm, combining with a f/1.9 maximum relative aperture – all in a package weighing just 1.25 kg. The KJ20x8.2B will go on sale at the end of February with a SRP of £4,090 + VAT.

United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, 17 December 2012 – Canon today announces the launch of the new KJ20x8.2B KRSD – a multipurpose 2/3” HD zoom lens designed to offer high quality performance in a compact, lightweight package. Combining Canon’s renowned optical excellence with affordable pricing, the new lens is ideal for camera operators who require superior quality in applications such as wedding and corporate videos, education films and documentaries.

The KJ20x8.2B KRSD offers an impressive specification alongside a compact design that guarantees advanced performance and operability. Its 20x zoom lens offers a 1.0 second maximum speed over its entire zoom range, alongside a Minimum Object Distance of 0.9M (10mm with Macro). Focal lengths range from an extra-wide angle 8.2mm (60.7 degrees angular field of view horizontal in 16:9 aspect ratio) to 164mm, combining with a f/1.9 maximum reflective aperture to provide excellent operational capabilities – all in a package weighing just 1.25 kg.

Optical performance that outperforms the rest

The new lens has been developed to deliver superior optical performance within its category. With tighter control of MTF across the entire image plane, a minimisation of chromatic aberrations and the maximisation of image contrast, the lens delivers superb levels of picture sharpness.

Contrast is maximised thanks to substantial reduction of flare, veiling glare and internal reflections. The lens offers tight control of the geometric distortion at wide-angle settings, while spectral transmittance characteristic is to HDTV colourimetric standards. With relative light distribution optimised for more open aperture settings, uniform brightness, excellent picture sharpness and high contrast, operators can be sure of producing vividly clear HD pictures.

Advanced technologies for pristine imaging

The superior optical performance of the Canon KJ20x8.2B KRSD can be attributed to a range of Canon technical innovations. A new optical design includes the precision optical element and multilayer coatings, as well as Canon’s Internal Focus – a floating optical system that vastly improves control of chromatic aberrations. The lens also incorporates Shuttle Shot, an advanced digital drive system that allows operators to precisely zoom between pre-programmed focal lengths, instantly and on-demand.

Solid, reliable, rugged and Earth friendly

The KJ20x8.2B KRSD’s has been manufactured to exacting Canon standards. A range of user-friendly design features have been included, such as a compact drive unit mounted to the lens at an ergonomically designed 12.5 degree angle, to improve comfort and balance during operation. Like all of Canon’s current lenses, the lens is also designed with the environment in mind, with the use of any materials and substances potentially harmful to the environment completely eliminated. Its high-grade design also makes it suitable for shooting in a wide range of situations – offering outstanding flexibility to complement its advanced performance.

The KJ20x8.2B will go on sale at the end of February with a SRP of £4,090 + VAT.